Four all-conference softball players return to Northview lineup

GRAND RAPIDS -- With four O-K White all-conference players, the Northview softball team is hoping to turn its experienced squad into Bronze winners.

"I like the core of kids that we have coming back," said Northview coach Tyler Shomin. "Offensively, we should have a strong batting order. Top to bottom, we should be able to score some runs.

"Our young pitcher is a year older, so she has another year under her belt. I told her that she is no longer a pitcher, but she is THE pitcher."

Back on the mound is all-conference hurler and junior Mackenzie Hanks. Senior Taylor White will return behind the plate, but also trade off with AJ Castle at third base. Junior Teegan Shomin earned an all-region nod for her play at second and will move to shortstop.

Returning to the outfield, junior Isabella Tysse was all-conference in centerfield. Senior Allison Gilbert was all-region in the outfield and will move into first base this year. Gilbert and White will captain the team this season and provide leadership, along with seniors Taylor VanderPloeg and Sydnee Sider.

"I'm not familiar with our league very much," said the coach. "It's a bit of a different schedule because we were used to playing each team twice in a season. This conference, we have to play each team three times in one week. We will have to prepare a little differently. There's no room for a down week."

Northview is looking to open the season with familiar foe Lowell on the Thursday after spring break.